It does make sense of how you put it. I like the symbolism in the TV series I like the part you mention of utena letting go of the past in the movie!

Yeah. I think the movie's recasting of character's motivations supports a sort of "going past the TV series" read. Miki, Juri, even Touga are essentially reversed, having achieved what they ostensibly wanted in the series (so we, as audience, can see how shortsighted those goals were?), and are seeking now to be free of the dynamic itself, free of the scenario. Touga, at least, gets to swim off. The one who really doesn't progress (he doesn't even understand progression, as seen in his "when I get out") is Saionji, and he, at least in part, does represent the past. He's oldschool masculine.

I've never been able to shake the Twin Peaks/Fire Walk With Me ghosting over the relationship between SKU and its movie version (and knowing some of the talent are Lynch fans doesn't help me put it out of mind). Fire Walk With Me definitely prequel/sequel/retells but it also alternates, for lack of a better term. It makes alien it's predecessor, makes it strange in different ways than the series did itself (new motives, new dynamics, recasting regulars).

Semi-apropos: As cute as Anthy's departure is in the series, I have to admit, naked on a motorcycle together is the better way to go.